What We Do At United Way NCA

The United Way Mission for Equity

United Way of the National Capital Area believes everyone deserves hope, respect and a fair chance. Learn more about what United Way NCA does for the local community in the Washington, DC area and surrounding counties.

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United Way is creating a more equitable future for all community members.

How do we get there? By Living United. By forging unlikely partnerships. Finding new solutions to old problems. Mobilizing the best resources. Inspiring individuals to tackle their most daunting social crises. And by making strategic investments that produce lasting results. Donate or volunteer today and support our work. Learn more about how we support our community through our impact stories, or check out the statistics below to see how we help through our ALICE initiative.

76.4%

Of Washington, DC students are eligible for free or reduced-price lunch

50%

Only 50% of adults with mental illness in Virginia receive any form of treatment

87%

In Washington, DC African-Americans make up 87% of the population experiencing homelessness

United Way NCA’s COMMUNITY COMMITMENT

United Way of the National Capital Area is committed to the health, education and economic opportunity of every person in our community, regardless of race, gender, income and ability.

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United Way Health

 United Way works to reduce health disparities and improve health outcomes for individuals and families in the National Capital Area.

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United Way Education

United Way empowers young people in the National Capital Area to overcome academic barriers and achieve their full potential in school and beyond.

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United Way Economic Opportunity

United Way takes action to address economic inequality and empower individuals and families in the National Capital Area to achieve financial stability.

Where does United Way NCA make a Difference?

Here are quick links to the work that United Way NCA does for the local community in the Washington, DC area. United Way NCA has community programs for residents in the National Capital Area, including:

Washington, DC

  • Washington, DC

Maryland

  • Montgomery County, MD
  • Prince George’s County, MD

Virginia

  • Alexandria City, VA
  • Arlington, VA
  • Culpeper County, VA
  • Fairfax County, VA
  • Fauquier County, VA
  • Loudoun County, VA
  • Prince William County, VA
  • Rappahannock County, VA

 

What can you do to aid in United Ways mission?

United Way of the National Capital Area is dedicated to creating a more equitable and thriving community for all. Your support plays a crucial role in achieving this mission. Here are some ways you can contribute:

 

Your involvement, whether through donations, volunteering, advocacy, or spreading awareness, makes a meaningful difference in advancing United Way’s mission. Together, we can create lasting change and build a stronger, more resilient community for everyone.

United Way NCA Community Programs

Health

Explore all United Way NCA community health programs:

Education

Explore all United NCA community education programs:

Economic Opportunity

Explore all United NCA community economic opportunity programs:

How Does United Way NCA Make a Difference?

At United Way NCA, we’re committed to improving lives across the National Capital Area. We focus on the often-overlooked ALICE (Asset Limited, Income Constrained, Employed) population—individuals and families who work hard but still struggle to afford basic needs. Click here for more information on what United Way does.

ALICE infographic by United Way NCA

 

United Way NCA Frequently Asked Questions

What does the United Way NCA do?
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United Way NCA is a nonprofit organization dedicated to improving the health, education, and economic opportunity of individuals and families in the National Capital Area.

What can I do to get involved with United Way NCA?
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You can get involved with United Way NCA by donating, volunteering, participating in advocacy efforts, joining affinity groups or regional councils, and spreading awareness about their mission.

What does United Way NCA do to aid in equity pursuits across communities?
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United Way NCA champions equity through a number of initiatives. Such as funding targeted programs, advocating for inclusive policies, fostering community partnerships, conducting data-driven research, and providing capacity-building support to organizations addressing equity issues.

What percentage of United Way actually goes to charity?
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United Way ensures that 85 cents of every dollar donated directly supports its mission. Overhead rates may vary among local United Way chapters, but across the U.S., the network-wide overhead rate stands at 14.5%, significantly lower than industry norms.

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